A monitoring system is disclosed for identifying an operating state of a motor, the system comprising: a speed sensor for determining a speed of a motor and providing a speed signal as a function of time in response thereto, and a processor configured to identify a symmetric and/or an asymmetric oscillation of the speed signal as a function of time.
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1. A motor assembly comprising: a first motor and a second motor, wherein the first motor is mechanically coupled to the second motor; and a monitoring system for identifying an operating state of the first motor or the second motor, the monitoring system comprising a speed sensor for determining a speed of the first motor and providing a speed signal as a function of time in response thereto; and a processor configured to identify that the first motor is in a failed state by identifying a symmetric oscillation of the speed signal, with respect to its average value, as a function of time; or to identify that the second motor is in a failed state by identifying an asymmetric oscillation of the speed signal, with respect to its average value, as a function of time.
A motor assembly includes two mechanically coupled motors, a first motor and a second motor, along with a monitoring system to detect operational failures. The monitoring system uses a speed sensor to measure the rotational speed of the first motor and generates a speed signal over time. A processor analyzes this signal to determine the operational state of the motors. If the speed signal exhibits symmetric oscillations around its average value, the processor identifies a failure in the first motor. Conversely, if the speed signal shows asymmetric oscillations, the processor detects a failure in the second motor. This system enables real-time fault detection by analyzing speed variations, distinguishing between different types of motor failures based on the symmetry of the oscillations. The mechanical coupling between the motors allows the monitoring system to infer the operational state of one motor by analyzing the behavior of the other, improving reliability in dual-motor systems. The invention addresses the need for accurate and timely failure detection in motor assemblies to prevent system downtime and enhance performance.
2. The motor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the processor comprises a first monitor, wherein the first monitor compares the speed signal to a first threshold speed, and is configured such that when the speed signal is greater than the first threshold speed, the first monitor counts up at a first count-up rate.
This invention relates to motor control systems, specifically addressing the need for precise speed monitoring and regulation in motor assemblies. The system includes a motor assembly with a processor that monitors motor speed to ensure it operates within safe and efficient parameters. The processor contains a first monitor that compares the motor's speed signal to a predefined first threshold speed. When the motor's speed exceeds this threshold, the first monitor increments a counter at a specified first count-up rate. This mechanism allows for real-time tracking of motor performance, enabling timely adjustments to prevent over-speed conditions or other operational issues. The processor may also include additional monitors for further speed comparisons and control actions, ensuring comprehensive motor management. The system enhances motor reliability and safety by dynamically responding to speed variations, making it suitable for applications requiring precise speed regulation, such as industrial machinery, automotive systems, or robotics. The invention improves upon existing motor control methods by integrating an adaptive monitoring approach that proactively addresses speed deviations, reducing the risk of mechanical stress or failure.
3. The motor assembly of claim 2 , wherein when the speed signal is less than or equal to the first threshold speed, the first monitor counts down at a first count-down rate.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with speed monitoring and control features. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable operation of a motor by dynamically adjusting monitoring parameters based on speed conditions. The motor assembly includes a speed sensor that generates a speed signal representing the motor's rotational speed. A first monitor is configured to track a count value, which is decremented at a first count-down rate when the speed signal is below or equal to a first threshold speed. This count-down mechanism helps regulate motor performance by adjusting operational parameters in response to speed variations. The assembly may also include a second monitor that operates at a different count-down rate when the speed signal exceeds a second threshold speed, allowing for adaptive control based on different speed ranges. The system ensures stable motor operation by dynamically adjusting monitoring parameters in real-time, preventing overloading or inefficient performance. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring precise speed regulation, such as industrial machinery or automotive systems.
4. The motor assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first monitor outputs a “false” reading when a count of the first monitor is less than a first count threshold, and a “true” reading when the count of the first monitor is greater or equal to the first count threshold.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with monitoring systems designed to detect and signal operational conditions. The motor assembly includes a first monitor that tracks a specific operational parameter, such as rotational speed, current, or temperature, and outputs a binary signal based on a predefined threshold. The first monitor generates a "false" reading when its count (or measured value) falls below a first count threshold, indicating normal or acceptable operation. Conversely, it outputs a "true" reading when the count meets or exceeds the threshold, signaling an abnormal or critical condition. This binary output can trigger alerts, shutdowns, or other protective actions. The system may also include additional monitors or sensors to track different parameters, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of the motor's performance. The threshold-based approach simplifies decision-making by converting continuous data into discrete signals, improving reliability and reducing false alarms. This design is particularly useful in industrial or high-precision applications where immediate response to operational deviations is critical.
5. The motor assembly of claim 2 , wherein the processor comprises a second monitor, wherein the second monitor compares the speed signal to a second threshold speed, and is configured such that when the speed signal is more negative than the second threshold speed, the second monitor counts up at a second count-up rate.
This invention relates to motor control systems, specifically addressing the need for enhanced monitoring and control of motor speed to prevent damage or failure. The system includes a motor assembly with a processor that monitors motor speed using a speed signal. The processor has a second monitor that compares the speed signal to a second threshold speed. If the speed signal indicates a speed more negative than the second threshold, the second monitor increments a counter at a second count-up rate. This mechanism helps detect and respond to abnormal motor conditions, such as excessive negative speed, which could indicate reverse rotation or other faults. The processor may also include a first monitor that compares the speed signal to a first threshold speed and counts up at a first count-up rate when the speed signal exceeds the first threshold. The combined monitoring ensures comprehensive speed regulation, preventing damage from both over-speed and under-speed conditions. The system may further include a motor, a speed sensor, and a controller that adjusts motor operation based on the monitored speed signals. This approach improves motor reliability and safety by providing real-time feedback and corrective actions.
6. The motor assembly of claim 5 , wherein when the speed signal is more positive than or equal to the second threshold speed, the second monitor counts down at a second count-down rate.
This invention relates to motor control systems, specifically a motor assembly with a monitoring mechanism for detecting abnormal operating conditions. The system addresses the problem of accurately identifying and responding to motor faults, such as over-speed conditions, by implementing a dual-monitor approach that dynamically adjusts based on motor speed. The motor assembly includes a first monitor and a second monitor, each configured to track motor speed using a speed signal. The first monitor counts down at a first rate when the speed signal is more positive than or equal to a first threshold speed, while the second monitor counts down at a second rate when the speed signal is more positive than or equal to a second threshold speed. The second threshold speed is higher than the first, ensuring a tiered response to increasing speed levels. The count-down rates may differ, allowing for fine-tuned fault detection sensitivity. If either monitor reaches a predetermined count value, the system triggers a fault response, such as shutting down the motor to prevent damage. This dual-monitor design improves reliability by cross-verifying speed conditions before taking action, reducing false positives while ensuring rapid fault detection. The system is particularly useful in industrial applications where motor safety and efficiency are critical.
7. The motor assembly of claim 5 , wherein the second monitor outputs a “false” reading when a count of the second monitor is less than a second count threshold, and a “true” reading when the count of the second monitor is greater than or equal to the second count threshold.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with monitoring systems designed to detect and respond to operational anomalies. The motor assembly includes a primary monitoring system that tracks operational parameters such as speed, torque, or other performance metrics. A secondary monitoring system operates independently to cross-verify the primary system's readings. The secondary monitor generates a binary output: a "false" reading when its count falls below a predefined threshold, indicating normal operation, and a "true" reading when the count meets or exceeds the threshold, signaling a potential fault or anomaly. This dual-monitor approach enhances reliability by reducing false positives and ensuring accurate fault detection. The secondary monitor's threshold-based decision-making allows for precise differentiation between normal and abnormal conditions, improving system robustness. The invention is particularly useful in applications where motor performance must be continuously monitored to prevent failures or safety hazards. The secondary monitor's independent operation ensures that even if the primary system fails, critical faults can still be detected, enhancing overall system safety and reliability.
8. The motor assembly of claim 7 , wherein the first threshold speed has a first positive value with respect to an average speed of the signal and the second threshold speed has a second value that is substantially the same as the first positive value but is negative with respect to the average speed of the signal.
This invention relates to motor assemblies used in systems that process signals, such as in data storage devices. The problem addressed is ensuring precise control of motor speed to maintain signal integrity during operations like reading or writing data. The motor assembly includes a motor and a controller that adjusts the motor's speed based on signal characteristics. The controller monitors the speed of a signal being processed and compares it to predefined threshold speeds. The first threshold speed is a positive value relative to the average signal speed, while the second threshold speed is a negative value of the same magnitude relative to the average speed. When the signal speed exceeds the first threshold, the controller increases the motor speed to compensate. Conversely, when the signal speed falls below the second threshold, the controller decreases the motor speed. This bidirectional adjustment helps maintain optimal signal processing conditions by dynamically responding to variations in signal speed. The motor assembly may also include additional features, such as a sensor to measure signal speed and a feedback loop to continuously adjust the motor speed. The thresholds are set to ensure the motor operates within a range that prevents signal distortion or errors. This approach improves the reliability and accuracy of systems that depend on precise motor control, such as hard disk drives or other data storage devices.
9. The motor assembly of claim 8 , wherein the processor is configured to determine if the speed signal varies as said symmetric oscillation or said asymmetric oscillation based on the outputs of the first and second monitors.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with diagnostic capabilities for detecting and distinguishing between symmetric and asymmetric oscillations in motor speed. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify different types of motor oscillations, which can indicate various operational issues or faults. The motor assembly includes a motor, a speed sensor, a processor, and two monitors. The first monitor detects deviations in the speed signal that match a symmetric oscillation pattern, while the second monitor detects deviations that match an asymmetric oscillation pattern. The processor analyzes the outputs from both monitors to determine whether the speed signal exhibits symmetric or asymmetric oscillations. This distinction is crucial for diagnosing specific motor conditions, such as mechanical imbalances or electrical faults. The system provides real-time monitoring and classification of oscillations, enabling early detection of potential failures and improving maintenance efficiency. The invention enhances motor reliability by allowing for targeted corrective actions based on the type of oscillation detected.
10. The motor assembly of claim 8 , wherein the processor identifies a symmetric oscillation of the speed signal when the readings of both the first and second monitors are simultaneously “true”.
A motor assembly includes a processor and at least two speed monitors that independently measure the rotational speed of a motor. The processor analyzes the speed signals from these monitors to detect symmetric oscillations in the motor's operation. When both monitors simultaneously indicate a "true" reading, the processor identifies a symmetric oscillation pattern in the speed signal. This detection helps diagnose motor performance issues, such as imbalance or misalignment, by cross-referencing the synchronized readings from multiple sensors. The system improves reliability by reducing false positives from single-sensor errors and ensures accurate fault detection. The assembly may also include additional components, such as a motor controller and a communication interface, to facilitate real-time monitoring and data transmission. The dual-monitor approach enhances diagnostic accuracy, making it suitable for industrial applications where motor efficiency and uptime are critical.
11. The motor assembly of claim 10 , wherein the processor further comprises a counter, wherein the counter counts up when both the first and second monitors output a “true” reading, and identifies a symmetrical oscillation of the speed signal when the count of the counter exceeds a predetermined counter threshold.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with enhanced fault detection capabilities, specifically for identifying symmetrical oscillations in motor speed signals. The problem addressed is the need for reliable detection of abnormal motor behavior, such as symmetrical oscillations, which can indicate mechanical or electrical faults. Traditional monitoring systems may fail to detect such oscillations accurately, leading to undiagnosed issues and potential motor failure. The motor assembly includes a processor with two monitors that independently assess the speed signal of the motor. The first monitor detects oscillations in the speed signal, while the second monitor verifies the symmetry of these oscillations. Both monitors output a "true" reading when their respective conditions are met. The processor includes a counter that increments each time both monitors output a "true" reading. If the counter exceeds a predetermined threshold, the processor identifies the presence of a symmetrical oscillation in the speed signal, triggering a fault detection alert. This dual-monitor approach improves accuracy by reducing false positives and ensuring that only confirmed symmetrical oscillations are flagged. The system enhances motor reliability by enabling early detection of faults that could otherwise lead to performance degradation or failure.
12. The motor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the motor assembly comprises: a further speed sensor for determining a speed of the second motor and providing a second speed signal as a function of time in response thereto, and a processor configured to identify that the second motor is in a failed state by identifying a symmetric oscillation of the second speed signal, with respect to its average value, as a function of time; or to identify that the first motor is in a failed state by identifying an asymmetric oscillation of the second speed signal, with respect to its average value, as a function of time.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with fault detection capabilities, specifically for identifying failures in dual-motor systems. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and accurate detection of motor failures in systems where multiple motors operate together, such as in electric vehicles or industrial machinery. The invention provides a motor assembly with enhanced diagnostic features to distinguish between failures in a first motor and a second motor based on speed signal analysis. The motor assembly includes a speed sensor for the second motor, which measures its rotational speed and generates a second speed signal over time. A processor analyzes this signal to detect motor failures by examining its oscillation patterns relative to its average value. If the second speed signal exhibits symmetric oscillations around its average, the processor determines that the second motor has failed. Conversely, if the signal shows asymmetric oscillations, the processor identifies a failure in the first motor. This approach leverages the relationship between the motors' operational states and their speed signals to provide precise fault detection without requiring additional sensors or complex diagnostics. The system improves reliability and safety by enabling early detection of motor malfunctions, allowing for timely maintenance or corrective actions.
13. The motor assembly of claim 12 , further comprising: a gearbox to which the first and second motors are coupled and a shaft coupled to the first and second motors by the gearbox for enabling the first and/or second motor to drive the shaft.
This invention relates to a motor assembly for driving a shaft, particularly in applications requiring precise control and redundancy. The assembly includes at least two motors, each capable of independently driving the shaft through a shared gearbox. The gearbox mechanically couples the motors to the shaft, allowing either motor to transmit torque to the shaft individually or in combination. This design enhances reliability by providing redundant drive sources, ensuring continuous operation if one motor fails. The gearbox may include mechanisms to synchronize motor outputs or distribute torque between them, improving efficiency and control. The assembly is useful in industrial, automotive, or robotic systems where high reliability and precise motion control are critical. The invention addresses the need for fault-tolerant drive systems that maintain performance under varying load conditions.
14. A monitoring system for identifying an operating state of a motor, the system comprising: a speed sensor for determining a speed of a motor and providing a speed signal as a function of time in response thereto; and a processor configured to identify a symmetric and/or an asymmetric oscillation of the speed signal as a function of time; wherein the processor comprises a first monitor, wherein the first monitor compares the speed signal to a first threshold speed, and is configured such that when the speed signal is greater than the first threshold speed, the first monitor counts up at a first count-up rate.
This invention relates to a monitoring system for identifying the operating state of a motor by analyzing its speed oscillations. The system addresses the challenge of detecting abnormal motor behavior, such as mechanical imbalances or electrical faults, which can manifest as symmetric or asymmetric speed variations over time. The system includes a speed sensor that measures the motor's rotational speed and generates a speed signal as a function of time. A processor analyzes this signal to detect symmetric (e.g., regular oscillations) or asymmetric (e.g., irregular fluctuations) speed variations, which may indicate different types of motor faults. The processor includes a first monitor that compares the speed signal to a predefined threshold speed. If the speed exceeds this threshold, the monitor increments a counter at a specified rate. This counting mechanism helps track the duration or frequency of speed deviations, enabling further diagnosis of motor performance. The system may also include additional monitors or logic to refine fault detection, though the primary focus is on threshold-based speed analysis. By continuously evaluating the speed signal, the system can identify potential issues early, improving motor reliability and maintenance efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in industrial applications where motor performance directly impacts productivity and safety.
15. A motor assembly comprising a first motor and a second motor; and a monitoring system for identifying an operating state of the first motor, the monitoring system comprising: a speed sensor for determining a speed of the first motor and providing a first speed signal as a function of time in response thereto, a processor configured to identify a symmetric and/or an asymmetric oscillation of the first speed signal as a function of time; and a further speed sensor for determining a speed of the second motor and providing a second speed signal as a function of time in response thereto, and a processor configured to identify a symmetric and/or an asymmetric oscillation of the second speed signal as a function of time.
This invention relates to motor assemblies with dual motors and a monitoring system for detecting operating states. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify and analyze oscillations in motor performance, which can indicate faults or inefficiencies. The assembly includes a first motor and a second motor, each equipped with a speed sensor. The speed sensors measure the rotational speed of each motor and generate speed signals as functions of time. A processor analyzes these signals to detect symmetric or asymmetric oscillations, which may indicate mechanical imbalances, electrical issues, or other operational anomalies. The monitoring system processes the speed data to distinguish between different types of oscillations, allowing for early detection of potential failures or performance degradation. This approach enhances reliability and maintenance efficiency in dual-motor systems by providing real-time diagnostic insights. The invention is particularly useful in applications where motor performance stability is critical, such as industrial machinery, robotics, or automotive systems. The system's ability to monitor both motors independently ensures comprehensive fault detection and operational monitoring.
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September 6, 2018
February 1, 2022
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